Basic Facts:

Parish Councils are the lowest tier in the local government structure. Councillors are elected for 4 years - elections this year on May 6th 2021 The PC's work is governed by a set of "Standing Orders" based on the laws governing all local authorities. Parish Councillors are not paid and have to abide by a local government code of conduct and declare their financial interests in the parish. Councillors must also declare any personal or prejudicial interest in a matter under discussion at a parish council meeting.


The Precept:
The Parish Council's money comes from what is known as the Parish Precept. Each December the PC estimates its likely expenditure for the coming year, and the County Council collects this for us from the people of Slaley parish with the Council Tax (this is shown in the annual council tax statement). It must fund all the PC's activities, including the salary of the Parish Clerk. 


The job and powers of the Parish Council

Roads and Footpaths:
The general construction and maintenance of roads and paths is the job of the County Council. However, the PC is allowed to provide additional street lighting, car and cycle parking, verge maintenance and planting, village signs, roadside seats and shelters and litterbins.

The County Council:
The Parish Council is a direct route of communication between local people and the County Council.